How to tell if a dog needs ears cleaned?
Hollie Torphy
2025-08-12 00:38:46
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Regularly check your dog’s ears for signs of infection, which may include: Redness, Itching one or both ears, Headshaking, Discharge or increased wax in the ear, Odor, Discomfort when touching the ear. If you suspect your dog has an ear infection, contact your veterinarian. Certain types of ear discharge, such as purulent (pus) discharge, can even inactivate certain medications, preventing them from working. If debris is packed deep into the ear canal, it can prevent the medication from reaching the deeper parts of the ear closer to the eardrum. For a dog with healthy, normal ears, a routine ear clean is only needed if dirt or debris is noted, as overcleaning the ears can also lead to irritation of the ears. A routine ear cleaning is recommended if the ears get wet, such as after swimming or bathing.
Yvonne Blanda
2025-08-01 06:26:34
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: 10
Signs that your pet may have an ear problem are: Itching their ear or shaking their head. Red, swollen and sore looking ears. Their ear might leak pus or wax. Some ear problems can cause your pet's ear to smell strange. In some cases, loss of balance. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to take your pet to the vet as soon as possible. Excessive hair growth in the ear canal can also make some pets more susceptible to ear infections. Dogs with allergies or those with floppy outer ears can be predisposed to developing ear infections.
Greyson Gusikowski
2025-08-01 02:33:51
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: 16
However, it is recommended to clean your dog’s ears if you notice discharge or an odor when examining the ear. Your veterinarian can help you decide how often your dog’s ears should be cleaned. If your dog’s ears are red, inflamed, or painful, consult with your veterinarian prior to cleaning. Some dogs who are prone to ear infections often benefit from more frequent ear cleanings. The structure of the dog’s ear canal makes it difficult for material trapped deep within the horizontal canal to be expelled without the assistance of cleanings. This material can lead to itchiness and ear infections if not removed. Do all dogs need to have their ears cleaned? No. While it is important to clean your dog’s ears when needed, over-cleaning may cause irritation in the ear canal and this can lead to infection. Some dogs that have healthy, clean ears may never need to have their ears cleaned.
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